Haemophilus influenzae Invasive Disease
Haemophilus influenzae is a bacterium that can cause severe infection, occuring mostly in infants and children younger than five years of age. In spite of the name, these bacteria do not cause influenza (the 'flu').
Haemophilus influenzae can be 'nontypeable', or have one of six different types (a through f). Type b is the one most people are familiar with, and the one type for which there is a vaccine available. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices and CDC recommend Hib vaccine for all children younger than 5 years of age in the United States, it is usually given to infants starting at 2 months old.
Alaska Surveillance Data
In the past five years, Alaska has received an average of 25 reports of invasive Haemophilus influenzae (Hi) disease per year. The majority were nontypeable and five cases of were due to Hi serotype b (Hib) disease during this time period.
All H. influenzae isolates associated with invasive disease should be sent to the Arctic Investigations Program for serotyping. For information on shipping isolates call 907-729-3400.
Resources for the General Public
Resources for Healthcare Providers
Haemophilus influenzae invasive disease is a Haemophilus influenzae invasive disease is a public health reportable condition in Alaska. Reports must be made within 2 working days after being suspected or diagnosed. Please call the Alaska Section of Epidemiology at 907-269-8000.
Infectious Disease Program Resources
